What's happening??

I had my pacemaker implant last October for AV heart block with bundle branch block. My initial symptoms were two episodes of fainting or near fainting 10-15 minutes after my run. In fact, I was already cooled down. Initially, my cardiologist thought I had a vasovagal episode, but the 24-hour monitor and event monitor revealed the heart block. I had been training for a half marathon scheduled for this Sunday, which was okayed by my cardiologist.

Last Sunday, after a 10 mile run (again 10-15 minutes after finishing and all cooled down), I started sweating profusely, felt nauseated, dizzy and nearly fainted. My husband said I was pale white and shaking. I saw my cardiologist two days ago and based upon the symptoms, he indicated another vasovagal episode, but after looking at the history of my pacemaker, he can't make that diagnosis. He also said I shouldn't run the half marathon anymore until he figures out what's going on. Apparently, my pacemaker recorded 3 separate events (the episode on Sunday wasn't recorded) where my heart rate went up to over 200 bpm. Now I have to wear an event monitor again to see what's going on with my heart. I have noticed I have been my heart racing at least 3-4 times a day. I wear a heart rate monitor and it measures between 110-156 bpm and I'm not even doing anything strenuous.

My cardiologist mentioned he may have to do an Electrophysiology Study and thinks I may have Atrial Tachycardia, but can't confirm anything until I see him in February, after wearing the event monitor.

Has anyone had similar problems? The palpitations throughout the day is worrisome, but I'm glad this all happened before the half marathon. Who knows what would/could have happened if I ran it?

5 Comments

Thanks a lot, Tripastor

by bioniclady - 2009-01-23 06:01:36

I will definitely check out that website. Thanks a lot for the tip. My cardiologist also suggested I stay hydrated, especially since I have a history of having low blood pressure. I have been very good with drinking water throughout the day. It's wonderful to hear there are others out there who are experiencing the same problems with their heart and knowing you are not alone is reassuring. This is a wonderful website and I thank you all for your words of encouragement. Take care and keep up the exercising.

Connie

Hi there

by Angelie - 2009-01-23 11:01:53

An EP study would help define exactly what kind of tachycardia you do have and where it's originating in your heart.
I commend you for continuing your running after your pacemaker implant. Kudos, and hats off to ya.
I'm sorry you felt so awful after your run. After my 5k, I felt great but then about 30 minutes afterwards I felt sick too. I can't imagine running 10 miles. Jeez, I admire people like you.
You didn't mention if your cardiologist was an electrophysiologist or not. I would highly recommend you seeing one if you aren't already. Cardiologists are like plumbers of the heart- they help with blocked arteries and structural kinds of things. Electrophysiologists are like the electricians of the heart- they're cardiologists who've specialized in the electrical system of the heart and it's complexity.
My pacemaker does not record my many runs of atrial tachycardia and flutter. My high rate is set at 150 (to accomodate my exercise) but it will not record any tachy run that is less than my high rate. I have also worn a event monitor which didn't record my atrial flutter, because most people don't run around with recording devices attached to the inside of their heart chambers. It's frustrating, I know.
You are not alone. There are a lot of us out there that can relate to you, I'm sure.
Hoping they get you figured out pretty soon. Hang in there. Sometimes figuring it all out, and the patience that's required for that, is indeed the hardest part.
Let us know how you're doing,
Angelie

Hey

by tripastor - 2009-01-23 12:01:23

I am also very active in endurance sports, and I have been diagnosed with VVS and SSS.
My Cardiologist suggested that I make sure I am extremely hydrated during times of exercise and throughout the day as dehydration can trigger a Vagal Nerve episode.
Also, try this website www.cardiacathletes.com it is filled with people who have cardiac conditions but are still pushing the envelope on the athletic side of the house. I think you may find some help there plus and large dose of encouragement that you may need.
Tripastor

Thanks, Tripastor

by Angelie - 2009-01-23 12:01:34

Will definitely check that website out. Sounds right up our ally.
Makes sense that they would have a cardiac athlete website. Sometimes it's easy to get lost in this vast web space, and you don't know where to look.
Thanks again,

Toast to the pushers of the cardiac envelope-
Angelie

Thanks!

by bioniclady - 2009-01-23 12:01:45

Hi Angelie,

Thanks! My cardiologist is an electrophysiologist, so it's wonderful since he knows my history. I believe my pacemaker is set to 170 as the high and 50 as the low, also to accomodate my exercise. It's amazing how sophisticated these pacemakers are. When my doctor read the recordings on my pacemaker, it had the exact date and time of the recording.

Again, thanks for your email. I will keep you posted.

Connie

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